Skip the freezing winter weather, pack a swimsuit or two and hop on a plane to sunny Barbados just as soon as you can.

With temperatures in the high 70s-low 80s and so many activities to choose from, January toApril is actually the best time to visit this island of beautiful beaches. Check out our list of the 13 things you have to do in Barbados:

1. Go the beaches. All of them.

Barbados has so much gorgeous sand and sun it’s impossible to know where to lay out first. We suggest heading to Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown for the clear water, perfect snorkeling conditions and the chance to explore a few shipwrecks. Over the course of your stay, make sure to make it out to all of the island’s incredible spots ― including, but not limited to, Bathsheba, Accra, Miami, Reeds Bay, Welches, Brandons, Dover, Crane, Silver Sands, Paynes Bay Beach, and so many more!

2. Take a catamaran tour.

This is one of the best ways to see the island if you don’t end up renting a car. Try taking an al-day tour and do lunch on the boat. Make sure to choose a tour that includes snorkeling stops so you can swim with the sea turtles.

3. Walk around Bridgetown.

As far as free activities go, nothing beats a walk around Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with buildings dating back to the 17th century. Walk around the military garrison, take in the incredible architecture and history of the Parliament buildings and stroll around National Heroes Square.

5. Go under the sea in a submarine.

There’s only one company in Barbados that offers such tours: Atlantis Submarines Barbados. The best part ― other than seeing turtles and the occasional sunken ship ― is hanging out at 140-150 feet below the surface, popping a bottle of champagne and enjoying a glass of bubbly while you watch the fish swim by.

6. Head to Oistins’ fish fry on Fry-day.

There’s nothing like a fish fry at Oistins Bay Garden. Recognized as the best Barbados has to offer on Friday nights, go here for delicious and reasonably priced seafood, flowing rum punch, amazing music, karaoke and dancing on the beach. Try to get there around 6 p.m. to grab a table, and be sure to check out all the stalls for fun goods to take back home.

7. Take in a little cricket action.

There are so many places (they’re called grounds) to watch cricket, which is the national sport of Barbados. Head to Kensington Oval ― the oldest ground in Barbados ― to watch the national team play. Be sure to brush up on the rules before you go!

8. Head to Harrison’s Cave.

This majestic natural wonder is guaranteed to overwhelm and entertain. Before you go, book a tour online, as the caves are one of Barbados’ most popular destinations. There are a few different kinds of tours available, ranging in both time (45 minutes to 4 hours) and price.

… Or, if golf isn’t your thing, do a meal at The Country Club of Sandy Lane, with its picturesque view of the courses and the ocean. Watch out for Mark Wahlberg and Simon Cowell, who are known to frequent the club.

10. Frolic around the gorgeous Flower Forest.

For just $15, visitors can enjoy the 50 acres of gorgeous flowers and trees at Barbados’ Flower Forest. Perched 750 feet above sea level, the views here are as outstanding as the setting is relaxing. If you feel inspired to explore even more beautiful foliage, check out Andromeda Botanic Gardens or visit with Green Monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife reserve.

11. Explore the ruins of Farley Hill.

Built in 1818, with continued construction over the next five decades, Farley Hill was once consideredthe most impressive mansion on Barbados. Though it was destroyed in a fire in 1965, the former home ― now a national park ― is still the perfect place to poke around or enjoy a picnic. Not too mention those breathtaking views!

Eating at The Cliff ― which is only open for dinner ― is an unreal experience. While you eat, you can gaze at the water, which is lit up to show off the huge fish, eels and other creatures swimming by. It’s expensive ― there’s a set minimum per person that’s about $132 and and there’s a dress code ― but you should save this one for your bucket list if you can’t go right now.

A photo posted by The Cliff Barbados (@thecliffbarbados) on Oct 10, 2016 at 5:58pm PDT

13. Indulge in some shopping.

If you’re a little sunburned and can’t lie in the sun, head to the Limegrove shopping center for some duty-free designer duds (or just window shop, like the rest of us). Though it’s small, visitors love Holders Farmers Market for its exciting array of Bajan goods or Earthworks Pottery for its beautiful handmade pieces.

…And then, it’s back to the beach:

— This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

Skip the freezing winter weather, pack a swimsuit or two and hop on a plane to sunny Barbados just as soon as you can.

With temperatures in the high 70s-low 80s and so many activities to choose from, January toApril is actually the best time to visit this island of beautiful beaches. Check out our list of the 13 things you have to do in Barbados:

1. Go the beaches. All of them.

Barbados has so much gorgeous sand and sun it’s impossible to know where to lay out first. We suggest heading to Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown for the clear water, perfect snorkeling conditions and the chance to explore a few shipwrecks. Over the course of your stay, make sure to make it out to all of the island’s incredible spots ― including, but not limited to, Bathsheba, Accra, Miami, Reeds Bay, Welches, Brandons, Dover, Crane, Silver Sands, Paynes Bay Beach, and so many more!

2. Take a catamaran tour.

This is one of the best ways to see the island if you don’t end up renting a car. Try taking an al-day tour and do lunch on the boat. Make sure to choose a tour that includes snorkeling stops so you can swim with the sea turtles.

3. Walk around Bridgetown.

As far as free activities go, nothing beats a walk around Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with buildings dating back to the 17th century. Walk around the military garrison, take in the incredible architecture and history of the Parliament buildings and stroll around National Heroes Square.

5. Go under the sea in a submarine.

There’s only one company in Barbados that offers such tours: Atlantis Submarines Barbados. The best part ― other than seeing turtles and the occasional sunken ship ― is hanging out at 140-150 feet below the surface, popping a bottle of champagne and enjoying a glass of bubbly while you watch the fish swim by.

6. Head to Oistins’ fish fry on Fry-day.

There’s nothing like a fish fry at Oistins Bay Garden. Recognized as the best Barbados has to offer on Friday nights, go here for delicious and reasonably priced seafood, flowing rum punch, amazing music, karaoke and dancing on the beach. Try to get there around 6 p.m. to grab a table, and be sure to check out all the stalls for fun goods to take back home.

7. Take in a little cricket action.

There are so many places (they’re called grounds) to watch cricket, which is the national sport of Barbados. Head to Kensington Oval ― the oldest ground in Barbados ― to watch the national team play. Be sure to brush up on the rules before you go!

8. Head to Harrison’s Cave.

This majestic natural wonder is guaranteed to overwhelm and entertain. Before you go, book a tour online, as the caves are one of Barbados’ most popular destinations. There are a few different kinds of tours available, ranging in both time (45 minutes to 4 hours) and price.

… Or, if golf isn’t your thing, do a meal at The Country Club of Sandy Lane, with its picturesque view of the courses and the ocean. Watch out for Mark Wahlberg and Simon Cowell, who are known to frequent the club.

10. Frolic around the gorgeous Flower Forest.

For just $15, visitors can enjoy the 50 acres of gorgeous flowers and trees at Barbados’ Flower Forest. Perched 750 feet above sea level, the views here are as outstanding as the setting is relaxing. If you feel inspired to explore even more beautiful foliage, check out Andromeda Botanic Gardens or visit with Green Monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife reserve.

11. Explore the ruins of Farley Hill.

Built in 1818, with continued construction over the next five decades, Farley Hill was once consideredthe most impressive mansion on Barbados. Though it was destroyed in a fire in 1965, the former home ― now a national park ― is still the perfect place to poke around or enjoy a picnic. Not too mention those breathtaking views!

Eating at The Cliff ― which is only open for dinner ― is an unreal experience. While you eat, you can gaze at the water, which is lit up to show off the huge fish, eels and other creatures swimming by. It’s expensive ― there’s a set minimum per person that’s about $132 and and there’s a dress code ― but you should save this one for your bucket list if you can’t go right now.

A photo posted by The Cliff Barbados (@thecliffbarbados) on Oct 10, 2016 at 5:58pm PDT

13. Indulge in some shopping.

If you’re a little sunburned and can’t lie in the sun, head to the Limegrove shopping center for some duty-free designer duds (or just window shop, like the rest of us). Though it’s small, visitors love Holders Farmers Market for its exciting array of Bajan goods or Earthworks Pottery for its beautiful handmade pieces.

…And then, it’s back to the beach:

— This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

Skip the freezing winter weather, pack a swimsuit or two and hop on a plane to sunny Barbados just as soon as you can.

With temperatures in the high 70s-low 80s and so many activities to choose from, January toApril is actually the best time to visit this island of beautiful beaches. Check out our list of the 13 things you have to do in Barbados:

1. Go the beaches. All of them.

Barbados has so much gorgeous sand and sun it’s impossible to know where to lay out first. We suggest heading to Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown for the clear water, perfect snorkeling conditions and the chance to explore a few shipwrecks. Over the course of your stay, make sure to make it out to all of the island’s incredible spots ― including, but not limited to, Bathsheba, Accra, Miami, Reeds Bay, Welches, Brandons, Dover, Crane, Silver Sands, Paynes Bay Beach, and so many more!

2. Take a catamaran tour.

This is one of the best ways to see the island if you don’t end up renting a car. Try taking an al-day tour and do lunch on the boat. Make sure to choose a tour that includes snorkeling stops so you can swim with the sea turtles.

3. Walk around Bridgetown.

As far as free activities go, nothing beats a walk around Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with buildings dating back to the 17th century. Walk around the military garrison, take in the incredible architecture and history of the Parliament buildings and stroll around National Heroes Square.

5. Go under the sea in a submarine.

There’s only one company in Barbados that offers such tours: Atlantis Submarines Barbados. The best part ― other than seeing turtles and the occasional sunken ship ― is hanging out at 140-150 feet below the surface, popping a bottle of champagne and enjoying a glass of bubbly while you watch the fish swim by.

6. Head to Oistins’ fish fry on Fry-day.

There’s nothing like a fish fry at Oistins Bay Garden. Recognized as the best Barbados has to offer on Friday nights, go here for delicious and reasonably priced seafood, flowing rum punch, amazing music, karaoke and dancing on the beach. Try to get there around 6 p.m. to grab a table, and be sure to check out all the stalls for fun goods to take back home.

7. Take in a little cricket action.

There are so many places (they’re called grounds) to watch cricket, which is the national sport of Barbados. Head to Kensington Oval ― the oldest ground in Barbados ― to watch the national team play. Be sure to brush up on the rules before you go!

8. Head to Harrison’s Cave.

This majestic natural wonder is guaranteed to overwhelm and entertain. Before you go, book a tour online, as the caves are one of Barbados’ most popular destinations. There are a few different kinds of tours available, ranging in both time (45 minutes to 4 hours) and price.

… Or, if golf isn’t your thing, do a meal at The Country Club of Sandy Lane, with its picturesque view of the courses and the ocean. Watch out for Mark Wahlberg and Simon Cowell, who are known to frequent the club.

10. Frolic around the gorgeous Flower Forest.

For just $15, visitors can enjoy the 50 acres of gorgeous flowers and trees at Barbados’ Flower Forest. Perched 750 feet above sea level, the views here are as outstanding as the setting is relaxing. If you feel inspired to explore even more beautiful foliage, check out Andromeda Botanic Gardens or visit with Green Monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife reserve.

11. Explore the ruins of Farley Hill.

Built in 1818, with continued construction over the next five decades, Farley Hill was once consideredthe most impressive mansion on Barbados. Though it was destroyed in a fire in 1965, the former home ― now a national park ― is still the perfect place to poke around or enjoy a picnic. Not too mention those breathtaking views!

Eating at The Cliff ― which is only open for dinner ― is an unreal experience. While you eat, you can gaze at the water, which is lit up to show off the huge fish, eels and other creatures swimming by. It’s expensive ― there’s a set minimum per person that’s about $132 and and there’s a dress code ― but you should save this one for your bucket list if you can’t go right now.

A photo posted by The Cliff Barbados (@thecliffbarbados) on Oct 10, 2016 at 5:58pm PDT

13. Indulge in some shopping.

If you’re a little sunburned and can’t lie in the sun, head to the Limegrove shopping center for some duty-free designer duds (or just window shop, like the rest of us). Though it’s small, visitors love Holders Farmers Market for its exciting array of Bajan goods or Earthworks Pottery for its beautiful handmade pieces.

…And then, it’s back to the beach:

— This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

Tell us about a great little bar in Esbjerg, a guided tour of Copenhagen, a boat trip, hike or hotel, and you could win a £200 voucher from uk.hotels.com

There’s much more to Denmark than overdone notions of hygge, noir TV dramas and Legoland – there’s a lot of glorious coastline, several remote-feeling islands and swathes of serene countryside. Copenhagen is a huge draw, of course, but there are other towns hosting great restaurants, hotels, museums and bars, too. Send us a tip on Denmark via GuardianWitness, with as much detail as you can (including website and prices etc, if possible) in around100 words.

The best tips will appear in print in next weekend’s Travel section and the winner, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, will receive a £200 hotel voucher from UK.hotels.com, allowing you to stay in more than 260,000 places worldwide. Submit your tip by clicking the blue button and using the text tab.

Last-Chance Tourism: People Are Flocking to These Destinations Before They Disappear

Thanks to climate change, pollution, logging and tourism, some of the world’s most beautiful places are in danger of disappearing, and more and more tourists are trying to get there before they’re gone.

A woman made a longer trip to a museum than planned last week when she found herself locked inside after becoming so engrossed in the art she didn’t realise the building was closing.

The visitor to the Pfalzgalerie Kaiserslautern Museum in south-west Germany – known for its works of German impressionism – was forced to escape via the emergency exit, activating several alarms in the process, which notified the local police.

Stay in an art hotel, see live music, shop for vintage clothes … the leftfield community of Kōenji in the Tokyo suburbs is home to an expanding creative scene

It’s a Thursday night and the concrete bar counter at the BnA art hotel is scattered with glasses of golden, spice-infused spirits. Young creatives in skate brands and neat vintage cardigans perch on stools as they sip to the sounds of ambient techno, knees bumping against the bright cartoonish stickers that dot the reclaimed wood.

Lignum Vitae is a kind of hard wood, whose Northern most appearance may be in the Florida Keys and which ironically finds a use in manufacturing the edges of cross country skis. It’s also the name of a passage in Islamorada where the bay meets the ocean. When you cross the Lignumvitae Channel you come to Robbie’s Marina which is a popular gathering place and market. There you can rent a kayak to explore the intricate lattice work of waterways that run through the mangroves where houseboats sporting aphorisms like “I’m on an all rum diet, so far I’ve lost three days,” share parking spaces with ospreys, iguanas, and an occasional crocodile. This is tarpon country and you see driveways and houses named after this powerful fish. A little further north at Cross Indian Channel you will find monuments to Ponce de Leon, the Cuban Rafters, and a armada of 14 Spanish ships carrying gold from Peruvian mines that was nearly totally destroyed by a hurricane in l733. The coral reefs that surround the Keys can be treacherous to ships in stormy weather and interestingly coral from the Windley Key fossil quarry was used in one of the areas most famous and heart wrenching local monuments, the Florida Keys Memorial. Known locally as “the Hurricane Monument,” it commemorates the hundreds of people who died on Labor Day of l935 when a storm with 200 miles per hour winds hit the area. Many World War I vets encamped in Matecumbe and working for the WPA perished along with the dream of a Key West extension of the Florida East Coast Railway. Inhabitants of the Keys have always lived dangerously and the environment’s very vulnerability to the onslaughts of nature may account for its fragile beauty.

–photograph of “Hurricane Memorial” by Hallie Cohen

{This was originally posted to The Screaming Pope, Francis Levy’s blog of rants and reactions to contemporary politics, art and culture}

— This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.